Three Maltese Students Head to New York for International Theatre Programme: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
Three students from the renowned Hoi Polloi Academy have been selected for the prestigious JTF International All-Stars Programme for 2026, joining the ranks of the world's most promising young musical theatre performers. This achievement comes as a result of their exceptional nominations and auditions at the Junior Theatre Festival Europe 2025 in Birmingham.
The selected students, Emily Dimech, Erika Bonello, and Laura Cardona, will embark on a transformative journey to New York City in January 2026. There, they will collaborate with the renowned Broadway-based company iTheatrics to create a brand-new musical theatre production. The programme brings together top youth performers from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, fostering a global community of artistic excellence.
During their time in the Big Apple, the students will engage in an immersive experience, participating in international ensemble work, attending Broadway masterclasses, witnessing professional productions, and delving into industry-standard rehearsal processes. Their journey will then continue to Atlanta, where they will showcase their talents on the main stage at JTF 2026, the world's largest youth musical theatre festival.
Marco Calleja, the Artistic Director of Hoi Polloi Academy, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Having three of our students selected is overwhelming. They will represent HPA, Malta, and the core values we uphold: creativity, collaboration, and growth."
The preparation for this programme has been meticulous, with the students dedicating months to familiarizing themselves with the musical material. Upon arrival in New York, rehearsals will commence immediately, with casting auditions on the first day. Despite the limited rehearsal time, the students have been granted early access to scripts, vocal tracks, and choreography for the upcoming musical Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile JR, a brand-new production in development.
The students' level of preparation and performance during rehearsals will significantly impact the casting decisions and the overall success of the ensemble. This selection marks a significant milestone not only for the students but also for the entire Hoi Polloi Malta community, which includes the Academy, Theatre Company, and Creative Hub, all committed to promoting Maltese talent on the international stage.
Hoi Polloi Academy is actively seeking sponsorship opportunities to support the students' journey, covering travel, accommodation, and participation costs. Followers can stay updated on the students' progress through Hoi Polloi Malta's official social media channels, witnessing the transformation of Maltese talent into global stars.
Congratulations to the talented trio! Their journey is an inspiration to aspiring artists, showcasing the power of dedication and hard work. Stay tuned for more updates as they prepare to conquer the world of musical theatre.
For more information and updates, visit Hoi Polloi Malta's website and follow them on social media.
